A GROUND-breaking ceremony in the Yorkshire Dales saw an MP lay a brick at a new retirement development.

Donning a hard hat and hi-vis jacket, Skipton and Ripon MP Julian Smith visited the construction site at Kirkgate, in the market town of Settle.

The development, by leading retirement housing company McCarthy and Stone, is to be called The Wickets. It will feature a rooftop terrace with Dales views and a guest suite where family and friends can stay overnight.

"It was a pleasure to visit the site of McCarthy and Stone’s new development in Settle, and to mark the start of construction there," said Mr Smith.

"Developments like this are a great asset to the town, as they provide the perfect solution for people who are looking to enjoy an independent and active retirement, with the added benefit of security and peace of mind."

At the building plot, Mr Smith was given a tour to see progress on the apartments. He joined site manager Colin Howson and McCarthy and Stone's senior marketing executive Laura Wigglesworth to be taken through the plans in detail.

The MP, who became Government chief whip after Gavin Williamson was promoted to defence secretary by Prime Minister Theresa May, said he looked forward to seeing The Wickets completed.

The development will offer a dedicated house manager, 24-hour emergency calls, spacious bedrooms and living rooms, fully fitted kitchens, a shared lounge for meeting up with friends, and beautiful landscaped gardens. Some flats will feature walk-out balconies.

To find out more, go along to the sales and information day on February 22, 2018, or visit www.mccarthyandstone.co.uk